DENTAL DISEASE IN PETS

Is one of the secrets to longer-lived pets right under their nose?

YOU BET IT IS. Dental disease in pets is a painful inflammatory condition that, in severe cases, can reduce a pet’s lifespan by as much as 15%. This devastating yet chronically underestimated disease starts early, with initial signs appearing in 70% of cats and 80% of dogs by 2 years of age. Because the most damage occurs below the gumline, dental disease is easy to miss until it’s severe.

But, the following facts about dental disease in pets cannot be ignored:

• Dental disease can initiate or worsen heart disease
• Dental disease causes daily pain and discomfort, which can lead to behavior problems and weight loss
• The chronic inflammation can increase your pet’s risk for cancer and cognitive impairment (i.e., senility)
• Routine veterinary dental care—including dental cleanings and X-rays under anesthesia—can reduce your pet’s risk for dental pain, discomfort, and disease

 
Let’s take a closer look at the devastation of dental disease in pets, the absolute necessity of appropriate care, and, while we’re at it, debunk some myths about “anesthesia-free” dentistry.

The dirty truth about dental disease in pets

Dental disease in pets is a general term that encompasses a range of oral conditions, from plaque buildup to periodontal disease. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to more than pain and tooth decay—they also cause chronic inflammation that triggers negative changes throughout your pet’s oral cavity and body. That’s when dental disease starts to chip away at your pet’s longevity. The harmful bacteria overwhelm the mouth, enter the pet’s bloodstream, and travel to distant organs, where they take their toll, creating consequences such as heart and kidney disease and diabetes.

Is your pet at risk?

While any dog or cat can suffer from dental disease, certain factors can increase your pet’s risk, such as:

• Breed and size — Small and brachycephalic (i.e., flat-faced) dogs generally suffer from dental crowding or a misaligned bite, which increase plaque and tartar buildup.
• Age — Dental disease risk increases with age.
• Diet — Although it’s a myth that regular kibble helps clean teeth, wet food and high-sugar diets can hasten dental disease.
• Lack of dental care — Pets should receive a veterinary dental cleaning under anesthesia by 5 years of age. 

Don’t ignore these dental disease warning signs

You love being close to your pet, but is their “doggy” breath driving a wedge between you? There’s a reason for this offensive odor—the tell-tale sign of bacteria and decay. Other dental disease warning signs may include:

• Red, swollen gums
• Unusual drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Blood on toys or food and water dishes
• Difficulty eating (e.g., dropping food, eating slowly or less)
• Visibly broken teeth

While visible tartar (i.e., the yellow-tan calculus that ruins your pet’s pearly whites) can be alarming and is undesirable, it’s not a clear dental disease indicator. Rather, the gums tell the truth.

False hope: Anesthesia-free dental cleanings 

The anesthesia-free dental cleaning was likely born out of the desire to reach more pets by removing dental care’s most common barrier—the owner’s fear of anesthesia. Unfortunately, this “service” provides only short-term, surface-level results, does not address problems below the gum line, and can cause pets heightened fear, anxiety, and potential injury. The American Veterinary Dental College has spoken out against anesthesia-free dentistry and provides numerous resources on their website.

Help your pet grow long in the tooth: Appropriate and comprehensive  dental care for dogs and cats

Despite all the bad news, there is hope in the fight against dental disease. But, as with anything worth the effort, time and dedication are required. Fortunately, I think you’ll agree that some extra weeks, months, or ideally years with your beloved pet make it worth the cost.

Here’s my recommended plan for comprehensive dental wellness.

Annual or bi-annual dental cleanings and oral health assessments under anesthesia

Appropriate and balanced anesthesia—performed by a veterinarian—means your pet stays absolutely still and ensures their safety and comfort. Anesthesia also ensures the veterinary team has access to all corners of your pet’s oral cavity for more complete examination, diagnostic assessment, and thorough tooth scaling and polishing. Your veterinarian will also use continuous digital and hands-on monitoring, heat support, local anesthesia (i.e., nerve blocks), and intravenous fluids to support your anesthetized pet.

Full-mouth dental X-rays

These X-rays are non-negotiable during your pet’s dental procedure. Similar to your own dental check-ups, dental radiography allows the veterinarian to look below the gum line and visualize any hidden pathology in the tooth root or jaw. 

Dental extraction for diseased teeth

Although therapeutic procedures may be necessary to save mildly damaged teeth, dental extraction (i.e., surgical tooth removal) is often most economical and effective. With appropriate post-operative care  (i.e., pain medication, antibiotics) and a temporary soft food diet, pets generally recover with no complications.

Proper and consistent at-home care

Dental care doesn’t stop at the veterinary clinic—health-promoting habits should be a way of life. While many veterinarians advocate for diligent toothbrushing, many pets don’t tolerate the process and likely would prefer a suitable, proven alternative, such as one of the many Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved dental health products for dogs and cats. Also, home care can extend the benefits of a veterinary dental cleaning under anesthesia, but is not meant to be a replacement, so commit to annual or bi-annual veterinary cleanings with X-rays.

Prioritizing your pet’s dental health is a vital aspect of responsible pet ownership and can effectively enhance and potentially extend their life. By paying close attention to your pet’s oral health and understanding the purpose and need for regular professional veterinary dentistry, you can help your pet enjoy a lifetime—or longer—of comfort and well-being.

Are you ready to learn more simple yet powerful ways to help your pet enjoy a greater quality of life? Find that and more by downloading our free ebook, exploring our line of dietary supplements, or scheduling a concierge consultation to unlock the secrets of Helping Pets Live Longer.